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Son of ice hockey legend Wayne Gretzky set to begin baseball career with Cubs

Gretzky Jr has a commitment to San Diego State, where he could play under baseball Hall of Famer Tony Gwynn if he chooses not to sign with Chicago.

TREVOR GRETZKY, THE baseball-playing son of hockey Hall of Famer Wayne Gretzky, was selected in the seventh round yesterday during the second day of the amateur draft.

The younger Gretzky knocks in runs — not goals — as a left-handed, power-hitting, California high school first baseman. And the jersey number he wore? Well, No 99, of course.

He has a commitment to San Diego State, where he could play under baseball Hall of Famer Tony Gwynn if he chooses not to sign with Chicago.

The Cubs also took a name from their past, drafting California high school outfielder Shawon Dunston Jr. in the 11th round. Shawon Sr. was the No. 1 overall pick by Chicago in 1982 and the cannon-armed shortstop played 18 big league seasons.

The sons of Ivan Rodriguez, Steve Garvey and Kevin Seitzer, and the great-nephew of Eddie Gaedel — who’s 6-foot-3, unlike his 3-foot-7 great-uncle who drew a walk in one of baseball’s most famous publicity stunts 60 years ago — were also among some familiar names called Tuesday.

The draft finishes today with rounds 31-50.

- AP

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